E53 X5 Stuck Panoramic Roof - FIX

[_XS3C_]

Just had found nice web page with some info's on how to's for E53 X5 and sharing some of the DIY's by copy/paste !

E53 X5 Stuck Panoramic Roof - FIX
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Apparently, there are many E53 x5's with panoramic roofs that have suffered operating faults in the cassette mechanism which opens and closes the pano roof. The problem is that the rear portion of the roof sticks in the open position and does not close. If you do not want to run to the dealer to spend a huge sum in having the cassette mechanism replaced, a simple fix allows you close the rear panel permanently by disabling the rear roof mechanism.
The fix involves mechanically disconnecting the rear glass to allow the rest of the sunroof to function as usual. The “fix” is actually an irreversible modification to a portion of the cable drive mechanism, but the alternative is to go to the dealer and have them replace the entire cassette, which reportedly costs thousands of dollars.

The procedure is surprisingly simple & straightforward: manually crank open the sunroof, remove a retaining spring & guide bar, use a cutting tool (e.g. Dremel) to remove a triangular tab on the drive cable plate, repeat on the other side, then reinitialize the sunroof’s range of motion.
After the “modification”, all other functions of the front roof will work as usual. The front roof will tilt (vent position) and it will fully open (slide back). The rear roof will stay closed, but you will have saved on an expensive repair bill.

[buckx5]

I too have found the fix you note but my problem is the rear glass is stuck ONLY on one side. So I want to know if anyone used this fix with the same problem I have. I fear the fix only works if BOTH side cables / rails / ramps are broken and not functional. I can see only the driver side cable / ramp is not moving. since it does not slide forward or back now...I think the anti trap sensor(???) is not letting the roof close. Do you have any more info?

[buckx5]

I had the stuck open in vent mode sunroof problem. The driver side rear glass would no go down. I ended up finding a local San Francisco ex-BMW mechanic who had experience fixing sunroofs. He ordered a front kit 54137118849 and rear kit 54137118850. Only the rear was broken but he thought best to replace both...Total cost $1387.56 including labor...took day and a half. I think this was way less than what the dealer would charge. And my sunroof is FULLY operational. Actually runs smoother and quieter now too. Happy now...wallet hurts a bit...but happy.

[Bme up]

Maybe a dumb question, but do you reinstall the spring and guide after dremelling off the triangular tab?